HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...

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HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019
                   11th- 21st April 2019

     Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the
Himalayan mountains. Disconnect from the distractions of life and
       reconnect with God in breath-taking environment.
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
Take me to the Himalayas for the Adventure of a Lifetime…
Join Us!                                                      €1,500/£1,350 Fundraising Target
After the enormous success of our 2014, ’16 & ’18 Treks       Option A: 100% of your total fundraising in aid of The
to the Himalayas which have raised in excess of £75,000       Surf Project
we are delighted to launch our 2019 Treks to the
Himalayas!                                                    Option B: 50% of your total Fundraising in aid of The
                                                              Surf Project with the remaining 50% going towards a
The beautiful Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal has                  charity of your choice.
something to offer everyone! Whether it’s the
opportunity to trek in the majestic Himalayas, view
the breathtaking terraced landscape, immerse yourself         JOIN US!
in a unique culture, or embrace the warmth and
                                                              Are you interested in joining us on this low altitide, stress
hospitality of the Nepali people, this is one Itinerary
                                                              free wonderful adventure in the foothills of the
that allows you to experience and enjoy all of the
                                                              Himalayas, making friends and memories to last a
above and much, much more!
                                                              lifetime? Then please do get in touch we would love to
                                                              hear from you and have you on the team!
This short trek in the Annapurna region brings you to
one of the best loved vantage points in all Nepal. Poon
                                                              To register your interest or to receive further
Hill is famed for its spectacular sun rise and                information, email beth.griffin@thesurfproject.org.
unobstructed 360° views of all four Annapurnas,
Machupuchre, Nilgiri South and Daulagiri.

A Time to Connect with God!

We want to provide participants with the opportunity to
take time out of their hectic schedules, to rest and relax,
to disconnect from social media and the distractions of
everyday life and connect with God.

We aim to create an environment where everyone can
encounter God, whether you are seasoned follower of
Jesus, new to the Christian faith or you are searching or
questioning your beliefs. We want to create an
environment where everyone can feel welcome, learn
from and encourage one another. What better way to
connect with our creator God than by exploring His
beautiful Creation! Each morning will begin with
morning prayers and each evening will involve evening
workshops and devotions.

Participation Fee: £1,700/ €1,950/ $2,150

This will cover      the        cost     of    your
participation on the trip.

Includes:      International Flights, Internal flights &
transportation, Food & Accommodation, Trekking
and Support costs, Trekking permits, rental of Down
Sleeping Bags, Down Jackets & Duffel Bags.

Doesnotinclude:Insurance Costs, Vaccinations, Nepali
Visa and Tips for Porters & Guides.

Each person is asked to cover this cost themselves-
Fundraised money may not be used to cover the cost of
participation.
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
Take me to the Himalayas for the Adventure of a Lifetime…

2015, A DIFFICULT YEAR FOR NEPAL
2015 was an extremely difficult year for the Nepali people.
Nepal suffered a devastating Earthquake on the 25th April
2015 measuring 7.8 magnitude & a second major
aftershock on the 12th May. Over 9,200 people lost their
lives and up to 25,000 were directly injured as a result. In
addition to the loss of life and injuries, there was
widespread damage to buildings, schools, hospitals &
homes. The Earthquake also had a devastating effect on
the countries tourist trade, which in 2013 made up 8.2% of
GDP and sustains the livelihoods of a significant
percentage of the Nepali Population.

Nepal is ranked second poorest country in Asia and it’s
population is heavily dependent on tourism. From the
hustle and bustle of Nepal’s main cities of Kathmandu &
Pokhara which employs countless workers in Hotels and
Restaurants to the markets which are filled with so many
beautiful Nepali handicrafts which are made in homes all
over Nepal as a means of subsidising income, all are
dependent on Tourists. The people of the towns and
villages along the trekking trails of the Himalayas are
dependent on Tourists driving their economy as are the
farmers in the countryside who grow crops for transport
to Tourist hubs.
In addition porters who would subsidise their incomes or
pay for their education by working in the tourist season as
porters.

                                                               THE BEST WAY TO HELP NEPAL
                                                               IS TO GO THERE!
                                                               The main mantra to come from Nepal, whether it is from
                                                               the Nepali Government or the Nepali people themselves is
                                                               that one of the best ways to help Nepal get back on it’s feet
                                                               is to visit! Nepal is open for business and warmly
                                                               welcomes tourists to sample the delights of all that Nepal
                                                               has to offer! Lonely planet has listed Nepal as its Best
                                                               Travel and Value Desitination 2017! By visiting Nepal you
                                                               will not only be enlisting for the trip of a lifetime to one of
                                                               the most scenic and stunning places in the world you will
                                                               also, more importantly, be directly supporting the local
                                                               communities who are so heavily reliant on tourist
                                                               business.

                                                               Safety wise, the Nepali Government Department of
                                                               Tourism and Foreign Affairs have compiled a list of
                                                               Tourist attractions and areas which have been affected by
                                                               the Earthquake and areas which have been declared safe
                                                               and open to tourists. Both the Everest region and the
                                                               Annapurna region have been declared safe.

                                                               Nepal does lie along the Indian-Eurasian fault line and
                                                               had its last major earthquake in 1934. As with travelling to
                                                               any country there is always the risk of natural disasters
                                                               occurring without warning. Most major international tour
                                                               operators are once again operating and promoting Nepal
                                                               as a Tourist Destination.
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
DAY BY DAY TREKKING ITINERARY
DAY 1:11th April                                                     DAY 4: 14th April

DEPART DUBLIN                                                        TREK TO GHOREPANI (2840M) 6HRS WALK
Our Team will meet at Dublin Airport & commence our journey to the
Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal together. Ordinarily the journey          Leaving Tikhedhunga, we continue our journey with a steep
takes 16hrs+ with a transit through either Dubai/Doha/               climb to the village of Ulleri. Ulleri is a large Magar village at
Bahrain or Abu Dhabi                                                 2070m. The trail then continues to ascend more gently,
                                                                     through forests of oak and rhododendrons towards the
                                                                     villages of Banthanti at 2250m and Nangethanti at 2460m
                                                                     before arriving at Ghorepani at 2840m. Ghorepani is a large
DAY 2: 12th April                                                    village with excellent mountain views of the Annapurna range.
                                                                     We have an early night tonight ahead of our summit of Poon
ARRIVE KATHMANDU                                                     Hill before sunrise.

Our team will arrive late afternoon in the ancient city of           DAY 5: 15th April
Kathmandu, where we will be met by our Tour operator,
Kamal Sapkota and transferred to our hotel. Our hotel is
                                                                     HIKE TO THE SUMMIT OF POON HILL (3210M) BEFORE
situated amidst the bustling tourist district of Thamel. You
                                                                     SUNRISE AND TREK TO TADAPANI (2710M) 5HRS
will have the opportunity to relax and unwind after the
                                                                     WALK.
journey or wander around and soak up the atmosphere of this
amazing city! If necessary, you could also pick up some last
                                                                     From Ghorepani, we wake early morning to visit Poon Hill (2
minute trekking essentials in the nearby markets! In the
                                                                     hrs), for the spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and
evening, we will be treated to a special traditional Nepali
                                                                     Dhaulagiri ranges. One of Nepal’s best loved vantage points,
welcome, where we will get to sample the delicious staple
                                                                     Poon Hill provides an unobstructed view of the high
Nepali meal, Dhaal Bhaat Tarkari. After dinner we will have
                                                                     Himalayas. Here we spend an hour or so watching the sun
the opportunity to meet our trekking guides and be briefed on
                                                                     rise over the peaks and celebrate reaching the ultimate
the following days schedule.
                                                                     destination of the trek. We then return to Ghorepani for
                                                                     breakfast. Leaving Ghorepani, we climb along ridges and
DAY 3: 13th April                                                    through pine and rhododendron forests toward Deurali
                                                                     (2960m) before reaching Tadapani. At Tadapani, we have an
FLIGHT TO POKHARA & TREK TO TIKHEDHUNGA                              excellent vantage point from which to watch the sunset over the
                                                                     surrounding snow capped mountains.
                                                                     DAY 6: 16th April
This morning we take the short (30mins) but spectacular flight
to Pokhara. If you are lucky enough to be seated on the right        TREK TO JHINU (1500M) 5.30HRS WALK
hand side of the plane and the weather is clear you will be
rewarded with spectacular views of the snowcapped peaks of the       Leaving Tadapani, our trek descends steeply
Langtang and Annapurna ranges. After arriving in Pokhara we          through rhododendron forests. The trail then eases towards
make a one hour journey from the city to Nayapul, which will         the village of Gurung, which is the land of the Gurkha
be the starting point for the trek. It is here that we will be       people-famous for their bravery in the British Gurkha
introduced to our porters, who will join us for the duration of      Regiments. From tthe village of Gurung, we have an easy walk
the trek.                                                            towards Jhinu. The final hour of today’s trek is again steep.
                                                                     However we are well rewarded for our efforts! When we
From Nayapul, we make our way along the banks of the sub             arrive at the town of Jhinu you can bath your weary legs in
tropical Modi Kosi River. The trek ascends steadily through          the natural hot springs ahead of our last day of hiking.
many towns and villages including Birethanti, an old village
along the Nepal-Tibet trading route. Here we will have our
trekking permits checked before being allowed to continue
into the Annapurna National Park. We then continue our
ascent towards our destination of Tikhedunghla, which stands
at 1570metres. This our first day of trekking, is short and
relatively easy going, allowing plenty of time to take in the
wonderful culture and natural beauty of the region.
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
DAY BY DAY TREKKING ITINERARY
DAY 7: 17th APRIL                                                  DAY 10: 20th APRIL

TREK TO NAYAPUL (1010M)6HRS WALK.                                  DEPART KATHMANDU
AND DRIVE,1.20HRS TO POKHARA
                                                                   You have the option of spending the morning spoiling
From Jhinu Hot Springs, we walk along the right side of the        yourself in one of Kathmandu’s many Spa resorts, enjoying
Modi Khola through small villages and bamboo forests to            the traditional Ayurvedic body treatments on offer, a body
Birethanti. This part of the journey is on relatively flat         scrub or a well deserved foot massage. Alternatively, you
ground and is considered one of the most relaxing and              can take it easy and soak up the atmosphere of this fantastic
enjoyable parts of your trail. We arrive in Nayapul where we       city! In the afternoon we bid a sad farewell to our guides
will bid our porters a fond farewell. We will then be taken by     who have become friends, to the Himalayas and to the
private bus to Pokhara where we can enjoy a celebratory            hustle and bustle of Kathmandu as we make our way back
evening meal together!                                             to the International Airport for our flight home!

DAY 8: 18h APRIL                                                   DAY 11: 21st APRIL

DAY OF LEISURE IN POKARA OR SITE VISIT TO                          ARRIVE DUBLIN
KOPILA NEPAL PROJECT                                               We arrive into Dublin early afternoon.

For those who wish to hear more about local life in Nepal
participants have the option of visiting local charity Kopila
and see first hand the remarkable work that Kopila are
doing with marginalised women and children in the foothills
of the Annapurna mountains. This is an excellent opportunity
for those who are fundraising for Kopila to hear first hand
from the beneficiaries of the project and to see how their lives
have been impacted by the work of Kopila Nepal.

DAY 9: 19h APRIL

FLIGHT TO KATHMANDU / SIGHTSEEING IN
KATHMANDU

After breakfast in Pokhara, we will be transferred to the
airport for our 25 minute flight back to Kathmandu. The
flight is spectacular, again offering fantastic views of the
mountains and the terraced landscape below.

In the afternoon, participants will have the option to do
a half days sightseeing in Kathmandu to visit two of the
most important Temples in the city.

Pashupatinath Temple,      which is a designated UNESCO
site, is situated on the   Bagmati river. This ancient
Pogada style temple is     the most important Hindu
Temple in Nepal, with      ancient ornately carved wooden
features.

Boudhanath Stupa: This is one of the biggest Buddhist
Stupas in the world and is located to the East of
Kathmandu. You will have the opportunity to visit the
Stupa and learn more about the Buddhist Culture and
even have the opportunity to observe the Buddhist
monks, clothed in their iconic purple monastic robes, at
prayer!

On our final evening in Kathmandu, we meet together
with our guides for a final celebratory meal in
Kathmandu! Ladies have the opportunity to dress up in
a traditional Nepali Sari and hit the town in style!
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
WHERE WILL THE FUNDRAISED MONEY GO?
                                                                    A Charity of Your Choice:

                                                                    Of the Fundraising Target of 1350/1500 Participants
                                                                    have the option of Fundraising 100% towards the
                                                                    wonderful work of The Surf Project or alternatively
 The Surf project is a self financing ministry of The               Fundraising 50% towards The Surf Project and 50%
 Methodist Church in Ireland with the aim of enhancing              towards a charity of their choice. For accountability
 the social, moral, physical and spiritual well-being of            purposes we insist that the other cause to which you are
 people using the sport and Culture of Surfing.                     you are fundraising towards is a recognised and
                                                                    Registered Charity.

                                                                    Recommended charity:         Kopila-Nepal
                                                                    By the time you have researched and travelled to Nepal
                                                                    and met its friendly and resilient people, you may wish to
                                                                    choose Kopila-Nepal as your chosen second charity.
                                                                    Kopila is a long-established and registered organisation
                                                                    which works with single mothers and widows amongst
                                                                    the Dalit (previously referred to as ‘Untouchables’) and
                                                                    lower caste communities. Nepal is in the bottom quarter
                                                                    of underdeveloped countries according to the United
                                                                    Nations and suffers the additional curse of a
 The objective of The Surf Project is to create safe and fun
                                                                    discriminatory social system built upon caste. Women
places and spaces where young people can encounter God.
                                                                    are further discriminated against and ill-treated due to
We aim to break down barriers and negative pre-conceptions
                                                                    their gender.
that young people may have towards God and the Church.
Through a creative, relevant and relational approach, our           Some of the staff of Kopila are actually from the higher
goal is to connect, build relationships and encourage young         castes themselves. They believe that everyone, given the
people to live life to the full through a relationship with Jesus   chance, has the potential to bloom and reach their
Christ.                                                             potential. ‘Kopila’ means bud. The work involves literacy,
                                                                    micro-credit (to start small businesses), support with
The Surf Project organise programmes for a wide variety of          children’s education and, importantly, the formation of
groups and open events for individuals. Each programme              formal women’s self-help groups which will eventually
will include a ‘Living Life to the Full’ workshop. Living Life      become their mechanism for changing things, allowing
to the Full, the ethos of the Project, is inspired by John 10:10    Kopila to move to new areas.
where Jesus said "I have come that they may have life and           Kopila is a long-term partner of Irish Methodist World
have it to the full". These workshops involve an exploration        Development & Relief. Every single penny or cent raised
of the issues affecting young people in today’s society such as     for Koplia, goes directly to their work. Depending upon
identity, trust, love, fear, self- worth, self-esteem & self-       the trek chosen, you may have the opportunity to meet
image. We give young people the opportunity to engage and           Bina Silwal and some of her team in the project areas, a
share openly how these issues may affect them whilst sharing        unique opportunity and memory.
with them what insight the Bible has to offer on these topics.

We encourage participants to actively participate and openly
discuss issues affecting them in their particular
circumstances in a conducive relaxed & safe environment.
Those who wish to then learn more about the Christian faith
are encouraged to come to our regular small group sessions
and Bible studies which we call ‘Waves’.

As a fully licensed & accredited Surf School, the majority of
programmes will include a high energy & fun surfing lesson,
what better way to experience God than through the power
of His creation in the ocean!

The Surf Project is part financed through income from it's
events but remains heavily reliant on income from Grants,
Donations & Fundraising. Project accounts are audited along         Participants from the 2018 Himalayan Trail Trek Team
with Methodist Church accounts & copies of Financial                enjoying a site visit with the lovely ladies of Kopila Nepal!
Statements are readily available to all on request.
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
Take me to the Himalayas for the Adventure of a Lifetime…

ACCOMMODATION:                                                          GEAR:
                                                                        Once you sign up to the trek, you will receive an information
                                                                        pack which will include a comprehensive list of gear that you will
Along the trekking route we will be staying in locally owned and
                                                                        need for the trek. The most important piece of equipment that
run lodges, known as tea houses, These tea houses are very basic
                                                                        you will need is a comfortable, reliable pair of trekking boots.
structures, but will have a warm welcoming atmosphere.
                                                                        It is worth remembering that our trekking company will
In Kathmandu, We will be staying in local 3* Nepali Standard            provide you with a good quality down jacket and sleeping bag
hotel, in the bustling tourist district of Thamel in Kathmandu.         together with a travel bag.

                                                                        At our welcome and information evening as well as on our training
WHAT WILL THE FOOD BE LIKE ALONG THE TREK?                              hikes you will also be given further tips and advice on what gear
                                                                        you will need and importantly what is not necessary!
Typically, Breakfast will be provided at the lodge where we sleep.
We will stop along the trekking route for lunch. We enjoy a
long leisurely lunch, usually up to 2 hours. This makes for a           WEATHER & EQUIPMENT LIST
welcome break to trekking as well as aiding acclimatization.            The weather in the Himalaya is unbelievably unreliable and hard
Dinner will be served in the evening at the lodge in which we           to predict. Regardless of what time of year you travel, clear views
will be staying.                                                        cannot be guaranteed. Whilst trekking you will be warm but cool
                                                                        down rapidly when stopping for lunch. During the day in the lower
The tea houses along the trek offer a surprisingly wide variety         regions, temperatures range from 25º to 10º with the possibility
of meals all cooked to order. Most of the food is vegetarian and        of rain. At night, temperatures reduce rapidly, and range from
grown in the surrounding areas. Dishes are typically potato, egg,       between 5 to -5 degrees.
rice or noodle based with vegetables depending on the season.
You will find a lot of Garlic on the menu, it’s said to help with       In terms of clothing, it’s best to wear many thin layers as opposed
acclimatization! You can also get treats along the trail, with          to few bulky layers.
chocolate, crisps and soft drinks available at all lodges. Inevitably
the higher you go the more expensive things get!                        Each evening our guides will give us a comprehensive report on
                                                                        what to expect the next day in terms of the trek and the weather
You will find meat available on the menu, generally however we          conditions predicted for the following day.
advise participants to go vegetarian for the trip.

Breakfast Tea. There are no alarms on this trek, after all you are      FITNESS:
on holidays! Instead you will be woken up to the sound of gentle        In order to enjoy the trek it is recommended that you are in good
knocking at your door. It will be your Guide, laden with a nice         physical shape and that you are able to walk in hilly terrain for
hot drink to set you up for the day!                                    several hours per day over 5 days. Stamina and endurance
                                                                        are required! This trek is graded moderate and should be very
                                                                        achievable for most fit walkers.
HOW MUCH EXTRA SPENDING MONEY WILL I NEED?
                                                                        The best thing that you can do to prepare yourself for this trek is to
As there are no roads in the area, quite literally everything has to    keep yourself well, and arrive in good physical condition. Previous
be carried up by porters, which means that in addition to the           hiking experience is not required. The fitter you are and the more
cost of the Item itself you are paying an additional                    training and hillwalking you do in advance the more you will enjoy
transportation fee for the porters to carry up the load.                the whole experience!
Inevitably, the higher you get the more expensive everything
becomes!                                                                Training hikes will be arranged pre-departure, it is highly
                                                                        recommended, but not compulsory that you attend these, they
Of Course, expenditure depends on your own spending habits.             are entirely for your benefit. The pace will be set by the guide
In Kathmandu you can buy lunch for as little as £2/€3, and              whilst trekking.
dinner and drinks for around £8/€10.

On the trek, 3 square meals per day are provided. For                   WILL ELECTRICITY BE AVAILABLE
additional treats you can expect to pay around €2 -5/£1-4, for a        FOR RECHARGING BATTERIES?
chocolate bar, a soft drink, or a Hot Shower. A good guide is           Electricity is available throughout the trek, you will be charged per
£10, €15 per day for additional expenditure.                            hour for the use and again inevitably the higher you go the more
                                                                        expensive it gets. But power failures are not unheard of, so best
There are some unreliable ATMs along the trekking route so              bring spare batteries just in case.
it is recommended that you take enough cash with you from
Kathmandu/Pokhara for the duration of the trek.
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
Take me to the Himalayas for the Adventure of a Lifetime…

WILL SHOWER FACILITIES BE AVAILABLE?                                    TIPPING PORTERS & GUIDES:
At most lodges shower facilities will be available. Again the           TIpping is by no means compulsory but it will be expected. From
higher you go, the more expensive it gets.                              experience, you will want to show your appreciation to the porters
                                                                        who will carry your bag for you over the course of the trek and to
                                                                        your friendly expert Guides who will be there for you 24-7 taking
WILL THERE BE INTERNATIONAL TELEPHONES /                                care of your every need and answering your every question!
INTERNET ACCESS AVAILABLE?
Internet access & International Telephones will be available            For large groups it is advisable to combine tips and then share
throughout the trek. Again, bear in mind that power failures and        them equally among guides and porters to ensure that all are
failures in Internet access are common. We recommend bringing           treated fairly and that nobody is forgotten.
with you an unlocked phone and buying a Nepali SIM card over
there, it makes for a convenient way of staying in touch with your      A guideline tip per person for Himalayan Trail trek is €65/£50.
friends and family at home!

WILL I BE CARRYING MY OWN RUCKSACK?                                     VACCINATIONS:
No. Your rucksack will be carried by locally employed porters. You      You will need to consult you doctor or Travel Medical Clinic for
are permitted a maximum of 15kg in your rucksack.                       a medical check-up and assessment in relation to your personal
                                                                        circumstances and needs in terms of immunisations.
You will be asked to carry a light backpack containing all you
need for the duration of the daily trek i.e., your camera, water,       Please find below the common recommended vaccinations
sun cream, hat, gloves and all money/valuables.                         required for Nepal.

                                                                        Recommended: Tetanus / Polio /Diphtheria/Hepatitis A/Typhoid
SUPPORT AND SAFETY WHILST TREKKING                                      Optional: Hep B & Rabies
Your safety & security during this trek is our primary concern. All
our trekking guides are fully qualified and licenced. They are also     Proof of Vaccinations will be required by 23rd Feb 2019.
wilderness first aid trained and have over 20 years experience in
hiking and leading teams in the Himalayas between them.
                                                                        INSURANCE:
They are extremely competent and knowledgeable. You will also           Should include at a minimum:
be accompanied by an Irish Team leader. Their main responsibility
will be to liaise between guides and participants and ensure the        •   Trekking in remote locations to an altitude of 3300m
smooth running for the duration of the trek.                            •   Emergency Helicopter Evacuation
                                                                        •   Repatriation to Ireland
                                                                        •   Full medical cover
EXTENDING YOUR STAY
It is possible to extend your flights and remain in Kathmandu           Proof of Insurance Required by 23rd Feb 2019
should you wish to continue exploring this beautiful Hindu
Kingdom! There is so much to do and see in this beautiful
country, an extra few days would give you the option of visiting       VISAS:
the Jungles of Chitwan National Park, where you would have the
opportunity to go Elephant back riding or on Jungle Safari.            NEPAL
                                                                       You will require a visa to gain entry to Nepal. British and
                                                                       Irish passport holders can get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu
CURRENCY:                                                              airport. You will need a passport photo in order to obtain your
The currency of Nepal is the Nepali Rupee. It is not necessary         visa. The cost of the visa is $30.
to order Nepali Rupees through your Bank in Ireland. When you
arrive in Kathmandu you can withdraw Nepali Rupees using ATM           TREKKING PERMITS
machines. It is essential that you check with your Bank provider       The cost of trekking permits is also included in your participation
that you can do this and that you alert them that you are travelling   fee. You will need to bring with you a passport photo for
to Nepal so that they do not block your card, thinking that fraud      your permit. At the end of the trek you will be given your
is taking place.                                                       Annapurna National Park trekking permit as a souvenir of your
                                                                       adventure.
You could also take cash with you and change it in one of the
many money changers that can be found in Kathmandu.

**Please note that Northern Ireland Sterling will not be
accepted or changed in Kathmandu**
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
Take me to the Himalayas for the Adventure of a Lifetime…

WHAT IS ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
Acute mountain sickness is an illness that can affect mountain        Keys to preventing acute mountain sickness include:
climbers, hikers, skiers, or travellers at high altitude (typically
above 8,000 feet or 2,400 meters). It is caused by a combination      •   Climb the mountain gradually
of reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes.    •   Acclimatization days built into your itinerary
The faster you climb to a high altitude, the more likely you will     •   Sleep at a lower altitude when possible
get acute mountain sickness. Your symptoms will also depend on        •   Learn how to recognize early symptoms of mountain sickness
the speed of your climb and how hard you push yourself.

In most cases, the symptoms are very mild. Symptoms                   Ask your doctor about a medication called acetazolamide
generally associated with mild to moderate acute                      (Diamox). This drug helps your body get used to higher altitudes
mountain sickness include:                                            more quickly, and reduces minor symptoms. It should be taken
                                                                      the day before you climb, and then for the next 1 to 2 days.

                                                                      If you are at risk of anaemia, ask your doctor if an iron
•   Dizziness or light-headedness
                                                                      supplement is right for you. Anaemia lowers the amount of
•   Fatigue
                                                                      oxygen in your blood.
•   Headache
•   Loss of appetite
•   Nausea or vomiting                                                While climbing:
•   Rapid heart rate
•   Shortness of breath during exertion
                                                                      •    Avoid alcohol
                                                                      •    Eat regular meals, high in carbohydrates
Symptoms generally associated with more severe acute
mountain sickness include:                                            You should avoid high altitudes if you have heart or lung disease.

•    Bluish discoloration of the skin (cyanosis)
•    Chest tightness or congestion                                    WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET SICK?
•    Confusion
•    Cough                                                            The most important thing is not to panic. A slight case
                                                                      of diarrhoea is to be expected, as well as muscle aches –
•    Coughing up blood
                                                                      all a part of walking in the hills! Altitude sickness is
•    Decreased consciousness or withdrawal from                       mostly avoidable if you follow guidelines set out by the guides,
     social interaction                                               mainly: trek high and sleep low, drink at least 4 litres of
•    Gray or pale complexion                                          water per day (not including soft drinks!), and BE
•    Inability to walk in a straight line, or to walk at all          SENSIBLE. If you feel shortness of breath, a slight headache
•    Shortness of breath at rest                                      or dizziness, tell your team leader/guide and rest immediately.

To treat altitude sickness, early diagnosis is important.             Lie down, drink water. If you are still feeling unwell you may
Acute mountain sickness is easier to treat in the early               consider going down a few hundred meters. Do not pretend
                                                                      you are okay. A descent of a few hundred meters overnight
stages.
                                                                      may be enough to get you fully acclimatised and back to full
                                                                      strength in order for you to be able to continue Climbing.
The main treatment for all forms of mountain
sickness is to descend to a lower altitude as rapidly and
safely as possible. You should not continue climbing if
you develop symptoms.

In mild cases, symptoms improve promptly as soon
as you descend to a lower altitude. Usually after some
acclimatizing at a lower altitude, hikers can resume
ascending. People with severe mountain sickness may
need to be admitted to hospital. Emergency evacuation
should be covered in your insurance policy.
HIMALAYAN TRAIL TREK EASTER 2019 - 11th- 21st April 2019 Join us for a once in a lifetime experience trekking in the Himalayan mountains ...
Take me to the Himalayas for the Adventure of a Lifetime…

ABOUT THE LEADERS / ORGANISERS:                                         NEPALI TREKKING COMPANY, MOUNTAIN DELIGHTS

Elizabeth Griffin, (Beth) a graduate of International Politics          Mountain Delights was founded in 2004 by Ram Sapkota
and Third World Development from University of Wales                    or Kamal as he is better known. Kamal has an inspirational
in Aberystwyth has a wealth of experience in both travelling            back-story of how he went from an impoverished son of a
to Nepal and organising Fundraising Treks to the region on              farming family in the remote Dhading district of Nepal, to
behalf of Irish Charity Suas Educational Development. Having            selling off some goats and setting up a bookshop business in
attained Diplomas in Travel Tourism, Management and                     order to pay for his secondary schooling, to how he became a
Marketing as well as Event Management and PR, Beth                      porter in order to improve his english and get to know the
considers the Fundraising Treks to the Himalayas the                    mountains and in order to pay for his Degree, to becoming
ultimate win-win situation for all involved!                            owner and director of a very successful Nepali Trekking
                                                                        Company! Participants will all have the opportunity to meet
“Participants benefit from a fantastic adventure of a lifetime to       Kamal and his wife and hear the full from the man himself!
one of the most enchanting countries in the world, Charities
benefit from the fundraising generated in the knowledge
that money fundraised in their name is not going to pay for
somebody’s holiday of a lifetime. Nepal benefits!,by using a
local, respected, reputable and registered Nepali Trekking
Company we are ensuring that all money generated as a result
of trekking in Nepal, stays in Nepal! And finally I benefit because I
get to share the beauty and wonder of this country that I love
with others”

Jonathan Griffin (Jono), is a graduate of Sports, Exercise and
Leisure and a PE teacher by trade. Having spent a number
of years working as a Youth pastor in Dublin, Jono initiated
The Surf Project, which is a pioneer mission project of the
Methodist Church in Ireland, with the main aim of enhancing
the personal, social, physical and Spiritual well being of people
using the sport and Culture of Surfing. (find out more:
www.thesurfproject.org) ) Whilst being in the ocean is his
first love, the mountains are definitely the next best thing!
Jono is a natural team leader and loves the opportunity to visit
Nepal and lead the spiritual aspect of the treks as well as getting     The company is both recognised and registered by the
to know and having the craic with the locals along the way.             Government of Nepal and the Tourism Board of Nepal and
                                                                        has an excellent reputation both at home in Nepal and
                                                                        abroad! It has entertained guests from all walks of life
                                                                        (including royalty!) and employs fully trained and registered
                                                                        trekking guides. The company are committed to
                                                                        environmental friendly policies and have organised “clean-
                                                                        up treks’ along some of the popular Himalayan trekking
                                                                        routes. The company also set an example in terms of the
                                                                        proper working and pay conditions of the staff & porters whom
                                                                        they employ.

                                                                        Kamal’s Social credentials are no less impressive. He has set up a
                                                                        Charity called Tukkee Nepal which is directly supported by
                                                                        profits from his trekking company. This Charity has supported
                                                                        approx 250 Dalit girls to go to school in the district where he was
                                                                        brought up. He has also set up a school in his village and a
                                                                        medical centre as well as a hydro electric dam, bringing
                                                                        electricity to his village for the first time! All 3, the medical
                                                                        centre, school and power station were very badly effected
                                                                        during the earthquake but are in the process of being re-built.

                                                                        So, even through your participation fee you will be
                                                                        directly helping the company to continue its charitable efforts!
APPLICATION FORM

I’M SIGNING UP FOR THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME!

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

First name                                                       Last name

Permanent Address

Email                                                            Home Tel. No.

Mobile No.                                                       Occupation

Date of Birth                                                    T-shirt & Hoody size:    S       M        L       XL

EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS

Emergency Contact Details 1 Name

Relationship to you                                              Work Tel No.

Home Tel No.                                                     Mobile No.

Address 

Email 

Emergency Contact Details 2 Name

Relationship to you                                              Work Tel No.

Home Tel No.                                                     Mobile No.

Address 

Email 

PASSPORT INFORMATION

This information will be used when booking your flights-please ensure that it is correct! Your passport must be valid for at least 6
months after the trek ends. Please provide a photocopy of your passport ( Photo Page) together with your application Form

First Name (as per passport)

Last Name (as per passport) 

Passport Number                                                  Place of Issue

Date of Issue                                                    Date of Expiry

Nationality                                                      Place of birth
Take me to the Himalayas for the Adventure of a Lifetime…

FITNESS TO TRAVEL                                            REGISTRATION FEE

This Trek requires you to be of a good level of fitness      A non-refundable deposit of £/€/$ 500 is required together
and have the ability to walk in hilly terrain with a light   with a completed and signed application form by 1st Oct
back pack for up to several hours a day over 5               2018
consecutive days whilst reaching an Altitude of 3210m
                                                             Cheques should be made payable to:
Please Rate your level of Fitness:
                                                             The Surf Project
Poor / Moderate / Good / Very Good / Excellent
                                                             BANK TRANSFER
Please specify below if you have any specific dietary
requirements:                                                EURO:

                                                             Bank Name/Address: Allied Irish Bank, 40/41
                                                             Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2
                                                             Account name & Address: The Surf Project, 2 Corrstown
                                                             Park, Portrush, Co Antrim, BT56 8 SN
Please specify below if you have any allergies:              Sort code: 93 33 84 Account number: 79794-044
                                                             IBAN: IE30 AIBK 9333 8479 7940 44 SWIFT code:
                                                             AIBKIE2D

                                                             STERLING:

Do you suffer from any medical conditions which you          Bank Name/Address: First Trust Bank, 35 University Rd,
feel we should know about:                                   Belfast BT7 1ND
                                                             Account name & Address: The Surf Project, 2 Corrstown
                                                             Park, Portrush, Co Antrim, BT56 8SN
                                                             Sort code: 93 84 24 Account number: 11211 066

                                                             DECLARATION:

Once you have signed up you will be required to fill out a   By signing the application form you are agreeing to the
medical questionaire and have this signed by your Doctor     terms and conditions laid out below. I agree that all
stating that you are fit to Travel.                          information contained in this form is true and accurate to
                                                             the best of my knowledge. If my circumstances change
Allergies/medical conditions will not necessarily            prior to departure I will let the organisers know
exclude you from participation. Our aim is to ensure         immediately.
that we identify in advance any health issues that would
require special monitoring while overseas.                   I have read the terms and conditions of entry and agree to
                                                             be bound by them.

                                                             Signed:

                                                             Printed Name:

                                                             Date:
Take me to the Himalayas for the Adventure of a Lifetime…
TERMS & CONDITIONS                                                   In the Event of Cancellation/ Delay:
                                                                     In the event that the Trek has to be cancelled or is delayed due to
All possible effort will be made to ensure that this trip runs as
                                                                     any of the following: Force Majeure, any unusual or unforeseen
smoothly as possible. However, things do not always run
                                                                     circumstances beyond the organisers reasonable control, The
according to schedule. Nepal is ranked the 11th poorest
                                                                     Irish Methodist Church or Mountain delights cannot be held
country in the world according to the Human Development
                                                                     liable for costs incurred. Examples include but are not limited
Index. General operating standards are unlikely to meet
                                                                     to war, major accidents, power failures, adverse weather
Western standards or expectations. Please take this into
                                                                     conditions, labour disputes, flight delays o r t ravel advice
consideration when applying for this trek.
                                                                     from Foreign and commonwealth offices advising against
Participants must be over 18 years old. Under 18’s will be           travel to any of our destinations. The organisers will make all
accepted if they are accompanied and under the direct                possible efforts to re-schedule or refund-but neither of these
supervision and care of a parent or guardian.                        are guaranteed. The organizers will not be held liable for
                                                                     costs.
Dates and Itinerary:
Participants must be available to travel 2 days either side of the   In the event that you have to cancel your place on the team, no
dates outlined. Participants must hold a valid passport which is     refunds will be made. You may also be liable for a reasonable
valid 6 months after the scheduled return date. The itinerary is     cancellation fee.
subject to change, in the event of unforeseen circumstances or
                                                                     Fitness Requirements:
adverse weather conditions.
                                                                     It is your responsibility to ensure that you are adequately fit
Our trekking guides reserve the right to alter the route,            to cover the distance as stipulated in the itinerary. It is your
walking durations or make other amendments in the safety             responsibility to be aware of the effects of altitude sickness.
and interest of the group, especially in the event of
                                                                     Visa Requirements:
weather difficulties or group members becoming sick or
                                                                     It is your responsibility to ensure that you are eligible for a
injured.
                                                                     Tourist visa into Nepal, and that you clear immigration and
Medical:                                                             customs. If you are refused access for any reason, the
You will be required to fill out a medical questionnaire prior to    organisers do not accept liability.
departure. This questionnaire will be used as a record of
                                                                     Insurance:
your medical history should treatment be necessary. You are
                                                                     Participants must hold adequate travel insurance. Please note
required to consult your doctor for examination and his/her
                                                                     that it must include full medical cover as well as cover for:
signature is required on the medical form. It is your obligation
                                                                     Trekking in remote locations to an altitude of 3300m,
to keep us updated of all medical conditions that are relevant to
                                                                     emergency helicopter evacuation and cover the cost of
your safe participation in this trek.The organisers cannot be
                                                                     repatriation to Ireland. Details of your policy must be shared
held to account in the event of false, misleading or omitted
                                                                     with the organisers pre-departure on the dates outlined.
information from the medical questionnaire.
                                                                     The organisers of this trek accept no responsibility for loss or
Whilst on the trek, if the trekking guide or leader give specific
                                                                     damage to your personal belongings or claims arising from
safety or medical advice, in the interest of your health and
                                                                     your participation in this challenge arising from your own
safety, you agree to abide by this advice.
                                                                     actions.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fully inoculated
                                                                     Data Protection:
as per advice from your doctor. Evidence of vaccinations
                                                                     All information that you have provided in applying for this
must be provided to us in advance of the trek.
                                                                     trek, will be used for the purposes of this trek only. Your
Medical Treatment:                                                   details will not be passed on to any third party, except as
It is a condition of joining the trek, that in cases of              required for medical reasons. Your data will be destroyed after
emergency team leaders and guides have your permission to            completion of this trek.
arrange any necessary medical or surgical treatments and to
                                                                     Complaints:
sign any required form of consent on your behalf.
                                                                     If you have a complaint regarding any element of this trek, it
Participation Fee & Fundraising Target:                              will be taken seriously. Please inform the organisers/team
The Participation fee for this trip covers the cost of your          leaders as soon as possible. Every effort will be made to resolve
participation on the trek. Under no circumstances can                the issue where possible
fundraised money be used to cover the cost of your
                                                                     Participation Fee:
participation on this trip. Fundraising Requirement €1,500/
                                                                     Participation fee must be paid on the dates outlined- failure to
£1,350: will go directly towards the work of Tthe work of The
                                                                     pay the amount in full may result in you losing your place on
Surf Project unless otherwise stated.
                                                                     the team.
Failure to submit full participation Fee and Fundraising Target
                                                                     No refund will be given to any party who do not make it to
in advance of departure will result in you losing your place on
the team.                                                            Poon Hill for whatever reason.
                                                                     Disclaimer:
Exchange Rate:
                                                                     Whilst we do our very best to ensure that your journey is as
Please note the exchange rate is set from the Euro Price,
                                                                     safe & comfortable as possible, you travel at your own risk.
therefore the GBP and $ may be subject to slight fluctuations.
                                                                     Participants agree to indemnify the Irish Methodist Church and
As you can imagine with the current uncertainty around Brexit
                                                                     Mountain Delights trekking company against any claims of
predicting future exchange rate is difficult. If there are
                                                                     damage or loss to personal property, personal injury or even
fluctuations in price participants will be notified 8 weeks prior
                                                                     death and any claim arising from your own actions.
to departure.
CHECKLIST:

   I understand the fundraising requirements
   I understand the fitness requirements

   I have included:

   A signed application form
   A €500 Deposit.
   A photocopy of my passport
   I have read and agree to the terms and conditions

   Fundraising Options: (Please tick one)

   Option A: 100% of Fudnraising Total in Aid of The Surf Project
   Option B: 50% of Fundraising in Aid of The Surf Project & 50% in aid of a Charity of Your Choice.

   Completed Application forms together with Deposits should be returned to:
   info@thesurfproject.org or

   Beth Griffin
   Treks Co-ordinator,
   The Surf Project,
   2 Corrstown Pk,
   Portrush,
   Co Antrim
   BT56 8SN

   WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? KEY DATES:

   1st Oct 2018:      Deadline for Application

   Nov:               Team Meeting & Information Evening Training Hike

   Feb:               Training Hikes

   March:             Training Hikes

   April 11th:        The Adventure begins!

   Pre-departure information and support will be on hand from the moment you sign up from your friendly and
   enthusiastic team leaders! No question is too big or too small. Your team leaders are there to take the stress out of
   planning and make this trip as enjoyable as possible for you!
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